A devastating fire triggered by a cylinder blast at a nightclub in Arpora village, Goa, has resulted in the tragic deaths of 25 individuals, sending shockwaves across the state, while in response to this horrific incident, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant has announced immediate and stringent action, confirming four arrests and the constitution of a high-level inquiry committee. The incident, which occurred around 11:45 PM on Saturday night, rapidly escalated. After the blast, creating a chaotic and fatal environment within the club premises.
Chief Minister's Swift Response and Arrests
During a press conference held on Sunday evening, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant underscored the government's firm stance on the matter. He confirmed that four individuals have been apprehended in connection with the incident. Those arrested include Rajiv Modak, the Chief General Manager of the club; Vivek Singh, the General Manager; Rajveer Singhania, the Bar Manager; and Priyanshu Thakur, the Gate Manager. On top of that, an FIR has been lodged against the club owners, Saurabh Luthra and Gaurav Luthra, with their arrests expected imminently, while the Chief Minister also disclosed that another club located on Romeo Lane has already been sealed, signaling the government's zero-tolerance policy towards illegally operating nightclubs or businesses.
Preliminary Cause of Fire and Formation of Inquiry Committees
Initial investigations suggest that the fire might have been caused by “electric firecrackers” detonated inside the club, leading to a rapid spread of flames and an uncontrollable situation, while to thoroughly investigate the incident and implement measures to prevent future occurrences, the Chief Minister has announced the formation of two distinct inquiry committees. The first committee, to be chaired by the Revenue Secretary, will be tasked with auditing all clubs, commercial establishments, and other venues operating without valid permissions, especially those with a high potential for large public gatherings, while this committee will also be responsible for developing a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for such venues to ensure that similar tragedies are averted in the future.
Detailed Investigation and Emphasis on Safety Measures
Another dedicated committee, comprising the South Goa Collector, the Deputy Director of Fire & Emergency Services, and the Director of the Forensic Laboratory, has been constituted to conduct a detailed investigation into the specific incident. This committee has been directed to submit its report within one week, while chief Minister Sawant has held multiple meetings with senior officials from the state administration and the Home Department to review the situation and strategize necessary actions. He also mentioned that the State Disaster Management Authority (SDMA) has issued an advisory to all clubs, restaurants, and other. Commercial establishments frequented by large numbers of people, urging them to adhere strictly to valid permissions and essential safety regulations.
Action Against Officials and Compensation Announced
Chief Minister Sawant explicitly stated that any government officials found to have allowed the club to operate despite violations of regulations would be suspended. This move aims to ensure accountability within the government machinery. In addition to punitive actions, the government has also announced compensation for the victims. The next of kin of each deceased individual will receive an ex-gratia. Payment of five lakh rupees from the State Disaster Management Authority Fund. Those injured in the fire will be provided with financial assistance of 50,000 rupees. Also, the government will arrange for the transportation of the mortal remains of the deceased to their respective homes.
Suffocation as Primary Cause of Death
Fire and Emergency Services and police teams promptly arrived at the scene following the incident. The Chief Minister revealed that initially, firefighters discovered only two bodies on the floor. However, a more grim discovery was made later when 23 additional bodies were found in the kitchen area. It was tragically determined that these 23 individuals succumbed to suffocation, highlighting the rapid and deadly spread of smoke from the fire, while an advisory will be issued to all nightclubs and other establishments within the hospitality sector, urging them to implement strong safety measures and strictly comply with all regulations to prevent any future tragedies of this nature.
